The Federal Government announced the establishment of centers across Nigeria where citizens can purchase a 50kg bag of rice for N40,000. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, revealed this during a briefing on the outcome of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting presided over by President Bola Tinubu.

According to Idris, this initiative is one of several measures by the Tinubu administration aimed at easing living conditions for Nigerians. He argued that the planned nationwide protests scheduled for August 1 were unnecessary, asserting that President Tinubu is already addressing the protesters’ demands.

Idris highlighted that many of the issues raised by the protest organizers are being addressed by the government. He cited the distribution of 740 trucks of grains to states and the establishment of designated centers for purchasing rice at a reduced price. Each state has initially been allocated 10 trucks of rice, with more interventions planned.

The government expects food prices to decrease with the arrival of the rainy season and ongoing investments in agricultural production. The minister also mentioned other efforts to ease the cost of living, such as the student loan scheme and the expected rollout of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) kits.

Despite delays in the rollout of CNG buses due to logistical challenges, Idris reassured that procurement processes are being followed and that the transition from fossil fuels to renewables will reduce transportation costs by over 60%.

Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo emphasized the administration’s significant gains, including the removal of fuel subsidies to address long-term energy sector issues. He highlighted new policies promoting local trade in crude oil and refined products, aiming to attract investments and create jobs.

Tunji-Ojo also noted the unification of exchange rates as a factor in improving economic predictability and fostering foreign direct investment, supporting local government autonomy, and driving grassroots development.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio warned against anarchy and urged Nigerian youth not to be misled politically. He emphasized that any destruction of property would divert funds needed for development and rebuilding, urging instead to focus on constructive efforts for the country’s progress.